HC Deb 07 July 1998 vol 315 cc464-5W
46. Mr. Gerald Howarth

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what mechanisms will be established to ensure the safety of air passengers following the privatisation of National Air Traffic Services. [47668]

Dr. Strang

The UK's safety record is second to none. It will be our concern, and that of NATS to ensure that this remains the case. Under our proposal for a Public Private Partnership, Air Traffic Control safety regulation will be made independent of Air Traffic Control service provision. The safety regulation will ensure that safety remains the overriding priority.